Ep 273: Hormones Gone Wild: How Thyroid, Prolatin and Insulin Impact Pregnancy
Join hosts Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center, Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center, and Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas as they dive into the role of three key hormones in pregnancy: thyroid hormone, prolactin, and insulin. In this episode, we discuss the thyroid’s function and why it’s problematic if it works too fast or slow. We explore common thyroid tests, how thyroid issues can impact pregnancy, and their connection to prolactin levels. We also break down prolactin’s role, what affects its levels. We discuss the difference between a micro- and macro-adenoma and treatment for both. Additionally, we touch on galactorrhea, a condition causing unexpected breast discharge, and the importance of discussing it with your doctor. We then shift to insulin and its link to diabetes. We explain type 1 diabetes (an autoimmune condition) and type 2 diabetes (where insulin doesn’t work effectively), along with the importance of hemoglobin A1C testing. Maintaining proper blood sugar levels before pregnancy is crucial, as poorly controlled diabetes can lead to birth defects, pregnancy complications, and delivery risks. Tune in for expert insights on optimizing hormonal health for pregnancy.This episode was brought to you from ReceptivaDx and RMA of New York.
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35:13
Ep 272: Anxiety, Anger and Baby-Making: Let's talk Mental Health
In this episode, Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center, Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas, and Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center are joined by special guest Dr. Ida Eden, a reproductive psychiatrist in private practice and an adjunct faculty member at Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York City. Dr. Eden shares valuable insights on coping with infertility. She explains how anxiety is common for many and can be managed positively. Sometimes it can manifest in unexpected ways such as anger or intellectualization (doing lots of Google searches) and how different defense mechanisms—good and bad—play a role. She discusses the importance of recognizing whether anxiety serves a purpose and emphasizes optimizing mental health through simple but effective strategies, such as exercise, social connections, and proper sleep. We explore the use of medications for mental health during pregnancy and how doctors assess whether to continue or adjust treatment. Finally, the conversation delves into the cost of mental health care, resources for those without insurance coverage, and the availability of telemedicine options. Tune in for an insightful discussion on mental well-being and practical ways to manage anxiety.This episode was brought to you from ReceptivaDx and IVF Florida.
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Ep 271: The Fertility Clock: Why Age Matters More Than You Think
Join Dr. Laurice Bou Nemer from IVF Florida along with hosts Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas, Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center, and Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center for a crucial topic: how age impacts fertility. As women age, both the number and quality of eggs decline, especially after 35. By 40, fertility is significantly reduced, and after 45, natural conception is rare. The doctors break down what happens to egg quality with age, including how older eggs are more likely to have chromosomal abnormalities, increasing the risk of miscarriage or genetic issues. They also tackle the common myth that healthy living can override the biological clock and shed light on the misleading narratives around celebrity pregnancies. This honest conversation is essential listening for anyone considering their fertility future—don’t miss it!This episode was brought to you from ReceptivaDx and IVF Florida.
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Ep 270: How an IVF Cycle Can Go Upside Down: The Unexpected Events in IVF Cycles
In this episode, Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center, Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center, and Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas discuss potential challenges during an IVF cycle. We cover issues that may prevent you from starting, such as ovarian cysts or improperly suppressed hormones. We also discuss cycle cancellations due to a dominant follicle and when a cycle may still continue. Medication adjustments during IVF, possible ovulation before retrieval, and side effects from stimulation medications are explored. We break down complications that can arise during egg retrieval, including difficulties accessing the ovaries and why eating after midnight could lead to cancellation. Additionally, we discuss ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a rare but serious condition, and what to watch for. Finally, we examine potential setbacks in embryo development, including cases where no embryos are available for genetic testing. IVF is a complex process, and while challenges can arise, understanding these possibilities can help you feel more prepared. Tune in to learn what to expect and how your fertility team works to navigate these obstacles.This episode was brought to you from ReceptivaDx and IVF Florida.
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Ep 269: To Do List for IVF
Getting ready for your first appointment at the fertility clinic? Join Dr. Carrie Bedient at the Fertility Center of Las Vegas, Dr. Abby Eblen at Nashville Fertility Center, and Dr. Susan Hudson at Texas Fertility Center for an informative episode reviewing the best way to prepare for your first visit at the fertility clinic. The docs review records and items to gather prior to your appointment. They discuss questions to review with your primary care physician. Tune in to get firsthand advice on preparing for your appointment!This episode was brought to you from ReceptivaDx and IVF Florida.
We all know it’s wrong, but when you see one big fat negative after another, it’s tempting to turn to Dr. Google for answers. But don’t you hit that search button. You have another option: Fertility Docs Uncensored. The nation’s leading fertility doctors have joined forces to separate fertility fact from fiction. It’s the only place you can hear fertility docs from around the country diving into the nitty-gritty of infertility. From their personal experiences as infertility patients, to what you can really expect from IVF, these doctors are covering it all (and they aren’t holding back).
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